It was reported that up to 100 Conservative Members of Parliament (MPs) are dissatisfied with Rishi Sunak’s proposed ban on cigarettes.
Concerns Over Legislation
Legislation aimed at imposing stringent restrictions on tobacco and vaping products, viewed as a potential lasting legacy of Sunak’s tenure at No10, is slated for introduction.
However, the proposed measures have faced criticism from some Conservatives, including former Prime Minister Liz Truss, who label them as indicative of a ‘nanny state’ approach.
Extent of Discontent
According to sources cited by the Guardian, approximately 80 to 100 MPs harbor reservations about the proposed regulations.
However, it remains unclear how many would actively oppose the legislation.
Political Dynamics
Despite discontent within the Conservative ranks, the legislation is unlikely to face significant hurdles, as the Labour Party has voiced its support for the proposals.
Consequently, there is minimal risk of the bill being blocked, with Tory sources indicating that opposition within the party may vary, with the convention suggesting it will be subject to a free vote.
Sunak’s Objective
Sunak’s objective is to curtail the sale of tobacco products to individuals aged 15 and under, thereby incrementally raising the legal age for purchasing cigarettes each year.
The overarching goal is to deter today’s youth from initiating smoking habits.
Economic and Social Impact
Government data underscores the substantial economic cost of smoking to the UK, estimated at £17 billion annually, with £10 billion attributed to lost productivity.
However, some Tory MPs, like Liz Truss, argue that the proposed ban represents an encroachment on individual freedom and is antithetical to conservative principles.
Labour’s Support and Scope of Legislation
In contrast to Tory dissent, the Labour Party has endorsed the proposed measures, which are slated for consideration through a free vote in Parliament.
Importantly, the legislation does not criminalize smoking itself, nor does it prevent individuals currently eligible to purchase tobacco from doing so.
Addressing Youth Vaping
The legislation also aims to address the rise in youth vaping, granting authorities new powers to regulate vape flavors and packaging targeted at children.
This initiative seeks to reduce youth access to vaping products, which has witnessed a threefold increase in recent years despite being illegal for under-18s.
Conclusion
The proposed legislation reflects the government’s efforts to combat smoking-related health issues and youth vaping trends, albeit amidst internal dissent within the Conservative Party and broader debates surrounding individual liberties versus public health initiatives.